Hundreds of residents from the West Adams neighborhoods around Benny Potter Memorial Park enthusiastically helped launch Council President Herb Wesson’s annual free summer “Movies in the Park” series with the movie “Despicable Me 2.”

“Going to the movies can be expensive for many families these days,” said Wesson. “Our goal is to provide an opportunity for families to visit with their neighbors and enjoy a summer night under the stars.”

While residents enjoyed the sounds of Pharrell Williams’s “Happy” song from the film, they also enjoyed hot dogs, popcorn candy for the kids, and an array of prizes that are raffled off prior to viewing the movies, all provided free of charge.

Joining Wesson was State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson. Elected statewide to oversee California’s public education system, Torlakson has been meeting with community resident to hear their concerns about public education.

Wesson’s community partners this year in sponsoring the series include the Department of Rec­reation and Parks, Community Build, Inc., the West Adams Neighborhood Council, United Neighbors Neighborhood Council, Olympic Park Neighborhood Asso­ciation and the South Robertson Neighborhood Association.

The next “Movies in the Park” event will feature the animated movie “Cinderella,” and will be held at Queen Anne Park, 1240 West Boulevard. All are welcome to attend, Wesson said.